If you’re reading this note, I’m thankful for you.
Even if you’re hate-reading it. Even if you’re only here because you can’t see a photo of Beyoncé without clicking on it. Even if you think there isn’t anything in this post-apocalyptic hellscape we’re living in to be thankful for.
I’m still thankful for you. I’m thankful that Google or Ms. Carter brought you here. Thankful that this magazine is still here for you to read. Thankful that our Rebelles are still cranking out some of the best feminist writing in Chicago.
The holidays are hard, but I’ll admit that I appreciate Thanksgiving for the reminder of how important it is to be grateful, even if that gratitude feels forced by the time of year. Oooh, I also appreciate Thanksgiving for my mother’s collard greens. And the mac and cheese. That dressing, too, dang.
I’m working on being more grateful all year long, and this is as good a place as any to hit the reset button.
I hope you can all find moments in the coming days to be thankful for something in your life, whether it’s people, opportunities, health or home cooking. Even when it feels like the world is a swirling shitshow of nonstop horrors.
A friend recently asked people on Facebook to post songs that make them cry. The one that came to mind immediately for me is “May I Suggest” by Chicago singer-songwriter Susan Werner. Aside: If you’ve never seen Susan live, you need her in your life. She writes the wittiest songs you’ll ever hear, and I defy you to hear this song without weeping.
It opens with a suggestion…
May I suggest
May I suggest to you
May I suggest this is the best part of your life
May I suggest
This time is blessed for you
This time is blessed and shining almost blinding bright
And ends with a request:
This is a song
Comes from the west to you
Comes from the west, comes from the slowly setting sun
With a request
With a request of you
To see how very short the endless days will run
Imagine living your life as if you believed that. For me, the song is a challenge. If these are the best days of our lives – if every day is the best day of our lives – it’s up to us to live up to their promise.
And for that, I’m truly thankful.
In Rebellion,
Karen
